St Briavel's Castle, Gloucestershire

St Briavel's Castle is a moated Norman castle noted for its huge Edwardian gatehouse that guards the entrance.

St Briavel's Castle was originally built between 1075 and 1129 as a royal administrative centre for the Forest of Dean. During the 13th century the castle became first a favourite hunting lodge of King John, and then the primary centre in England for the manufacture of quarrels (the ammunition used in a crossbow), large numbers of which were required for crossbows in medieval warfare. The castle was transferred many times between royal favourites in the 14th and 15th centuries but eventually declined in appearance and importance.

St Briavels Castle became used primarily as a court and as a notorious debtors' prison until 1842 when reforms in the 19th century brought an end to the castle's use as a prison.

Extensive renovation at the turn of the 20th century allowed St Briavels Castle to be taken over as a Youth Hostel in 1948, as it remains today.

Opening Times

Bailey 1 April - 30 September, 1pm-4pm daily.

Exterior any reasonable time.

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Ticket Prices

Admission is free.

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Disabled Facilities

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More Information

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